Emily Rohner (left) is the new Community Engagement Coordinator. Photo courtesy of Jefferson Matters

The Jefferson Matters organization has expanded to three full-time employees, as the final person was recently hired.

Executive Director Matt Wetrich says Emily Rohner is the new Community Engagement Coordinator for Jefferson Matters. After being in a fill-in position, Wetrich tells Raccoon Valley Radio that Rohner applied for the position and he is excited to officially add her to their staff. He points out some of her job responsibilities include marketing, tourism and events, with improving the non-profit organization’s social media presence, helping with branding and improving tourism overall. He notes her main duty is to be that storyteller of the community.

“And sharing what’s going on here in Jefferson and why Jefferson is the place that A, you want to live and raise a family, also why you might want to move here and just visit here, and telling that story. So locally, people have more buy-in, but then attracting new visitors is a big part of it too.”   

Wetrich adds his focus as the director will primarily be on economic development and working with other entities such as the city of Jefferson, Greene County Development Corporation, Main Street Iowa, and others. Another outlet that Wetrich will be responsible for is searching and applying for other grant opportunities that will bring in additional funding for projects and events. Wetrich is incredibly excited for 2025 with the additions of Rohner and Kevin Paulsen as the Office Coordinator, who was also hired earlier this year.